You could do a degree in law to become a barrister. You also have the option to do a degree in any subject and complete a Graduate Diploma in Law afterwards.

Once you've graduated, you need to complete:

• the Bar Professional Training Course which takes one year
• a year of practical training called a pupillage

To get into some universities you'll need to pass the Law National Aptitude Test (LNAT).

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

You could start your career by working in a law firm or the law department of an organisation.

With support from your employer, you could complete a qualification like the Level 6 Professional Higher Diploma in Law through the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives.

Solicitors

If you're a solicitor, you can apply to become a barrister if you get approval from the Bar Standards Board and sit a Bar Transfer Test.

You'll need:

• legal knowledge including court procedures and government regulations
• excellent verbal communication skills
• active listening skills
• analytical thinking skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• persuading skills
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

You'll need to:

• pass background checks

In your day-to-day duties you could:

• meet with clients and take on cases
• research the law and cases similar to the one you're working on
• read witness statements and reports
• offer legal advice and your opinion
• negotiate settlements out of court
• prepare legal arguments and court briefs
• question witnesses and present cases to the judge and jury

You could work in a court, at chambers or in an office.

Your working environment may be emotionally demanding.